With stress, pain, and various other health issues overwhelming people in today’s modern world, many consider cannabinoids such as CBN and CBD to be a way out to help cope with their stressors. Similar to other herbal remedies, these two natural chemical compounds become trending and highly misunderstood about how they may differ. Both CBN and CBD are derived from the cannabis plant, but they possess different effects on the body. Both can be great for wellness, but what sets them apart is just what you need to figure out, which suits you.
Now, in more detail, let’s look at what differentiates CBN from CBD and look at how these two cannabinoids can enhance your general well-being.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, more popularly known as CBD, is among the most well-recognized cannabinoids—and for great reasons. It exploded in popularity due to the fact that it does not make people feel high, unlike its sister cannabinoid, THC. People mostly use CBD for anxiety, chronic pain, and even insomnia because it works wonderfully with the body’s ECS, or endocannabinoid system. This complex system is involved in controlling mood, sleep, and even immune function. That can come in many forms, from a few drops of oil under the tongue to topicals, even infused edibles. Because it’s not intoxicating, you can use it during the day without concern of being altered or impaired.
People love how versatile CBD is. You may try it for one reason and come to realize the unexpected benefits in other areas of your life. It has become a mainstay for those who seek natural, effective relief.
What is CBN?
CBN stands for cannabinol and, while perhaps not as well-known as its cousin CBD, is rapidly making up for lost time in the wellness space. It’s produced through the degradation of THC—the psychoactive element within cannabis—overtime. Rather than sourcing directly from the plant, as is the case with CBD, CBN is actually the end product created once THC breaks down, so it won’t get you high. It’s only mildly psychoactive and primarily known for its sedative effects, which makes it a great choice for people who have a hard time sleeping. Whether you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, CBN can help relax your mind and body to rest. Although still relatively new to the market, its potential for induction of sleep and relaxation has built it quickly into a go-to for those looking to get more natural sleep.
While it may not be as famous as CBD, it’s definitely something worth considering if someone’s focused on improving sleep quality.
Key Differences Between CBN and CBD
While CBN and CBD come from the same plants, they influence the body differently. Let’s break it down:
Where They Come From:
CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant, whereas CBN is a result of THC breakdown. This subtle difference plays a role in how they affect your body.
Psychoactivity:
CBD is completely non-psychoactive. It won’t get you high under any circumstance. CBN, on the other hand, is mildly psychoactive, though its effects are so subtle you’re more likely to feel relaxed than “high.”
Research and Popularity:
While CBD has been researched and its benefits are widely recognized, CBN is more of a newcomer into the scene and still needs more research. That said, early signs do look great, especially about sleep.
Mechanism of Working:
Cannabidiol normally comes in contact with a number of receptors present within ECS, which have enormous importance in regulating pain, anxiety, and inflammation. CBN took on a narrower effect, especially regarding relaxation and induction through sleep.
Knowing these differences can help you make an educated decision, but really it comes down to what exactly you’re trying to accomplish.
Benefits of CBD for Wellness
It certainly has carved its place in many routines of people engaged in wellness, and rightly so. Indeed, it has a host of potential benefits.
Anxiety Relief
If you have ever dealt with anxiety, you know how it can creep in and take over a day. CBD might ease that tension since it acts on the serotonin receptors inside your brain. It is for this reason: all relief, no sedation, or risk of dependency associated with many medications. Whether it be social anxiety, general anxiety, or it falls somewhere in between, CBD can provide the peace for which you have been searching.
Pain Management
Chronic pain is debilitating, and with so many medications out there, a lot of them contain side effects. The anti-inflammatory properties in CBD allow it to relieve pain, especially among those who suffer from things like arthritis, muscle soreness, and even migraines. Since it does not contain the side effects of opioids, CBD is a natural alternative for pain treatment.
Better Sleeping
While CBN is often hyped as the Goldilocks of sleep, CBD really holds its own. By reducing anxiety and managing pain, CBD helps you relax enough to fall asleep and stay asleep longer. If sleeplessness is related to other issues, such as stress or discomfort, CBD could be just the right remedy.
Reduced Inflammation
From sore muscles post-exercise to rheumatoid arthritis, most health issues have their basis in inflammation. The anti-inflammatory actions very much make CBD a popular choice for those looking to manage inflammation naturally. It helps ease the body from the inside out, whether taken orally or applied topically.
Skin Care
It’s not just your inner health that benefits from CBD. Skincare products infused with CBD have become incredibly popular as they reduce and fight acne, redness, and irritation of the skin. If you suffer from conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, CBD helps to reduce the severity of your symptoms and allows for healthier-looking skin.
Wellness Benefits of CBN
Though CBN is surely in its infancy, it carves a foothold in the wellness world, quite precisely for people who show endurance against sleep and relaxation disorders.
Sleep Support
If going to sleep has become a nightly struggle, then CBN might just be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Recognized for its sleep-conducive properties, CBN helps relax both mind and body in preparation for sleep. Many find that CBN offers just the support they need to rise feeling rested. Sleep is foundational to wellness, and CBN is quickly earning a reputation for delivering.
Pain Relief
Like CBD, CBN has proven to offer pain relief, especially when combined with other cannabinoids. Its slight sedative nature makes it most effective for people suffering from pain that does not allow them to rest well. Taking the edge off, CBN not only helps one manage pain but also gives the person a better chance at restorative rest.
Cool Inflammation
Initial studies, while not extensive, would show that CBN is anti-inflammatory in nature. Whether one has a specific condition like arthritis or simply wants to reduce general inflammation, one can try it through CBN. It might be a great fit since it helps you with its soothing vibe, reducing swelling and discomfort in order for you to move along in your day with less pain.
Antibacterial Properties
It is still early days, but a few studies have pointed at the anti-bacterial properties of CBN. In particular, it has come to be theorized that CBN may fight those bacteria resistant to traditional antibiotics. Since it is still not applied widely as a solution against bacterial infections, this area of research is highly exciting and could be a potential wellness benefit.
Neuroprotection
CBN also holds promise for neuroprotection, a process designed to protect the brain cells from destruction. Such could be of paramount importance to people due to neurodegenerative ailments like Alzheimer’s disease. While more research is needed in this area, the neuroprotective action of CBN shows a ray of hope for those interested in life-long cognitive health support.
CBN versus CBD: Which is best for you?
So, which cannabinoid is better for you, CBN or CBD? Well, it is all about needs. If you are thinking about anxiety, inflammation, or general wellness, then CBD is most likely to be your best bet—it’s versatile, well-researched, and wide-ranging in benefits. However, if sleep is your main concern or you need something stronger to hit the hay, CBN is much better. Some find that using both cannabinoids together yields the most well-rounded effect since each interacts with different parts of the ECS.
If you’re new to the world of cannabinoids, you may be wondering about CBD vs. CBD and which product is best. Truth be told, each one serves a different purpose, so understanding your own wellness goals will be key in choosing.